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I prefer the first arrangement. Is there any way of getting a bit more height to the pair on the left? If I were you I'd get a few more of differing shapes - ideally with at least one or two flat-ish ones so you can create a bit of a stack on that right-hand side. You want two sturdy, tallish ones stood on the glass at the bottom of the tank, then one or two on top of them to create a cave. It can be tricky to make it look natural, but it can work. I like the single standing stone on the left as it is and I'm imagining all your shells scattered around them.

I'd be moving it away from the window and putting it elsewhere unless you want your blinds closed all the time. I sure wouldn't want to not be able to see outside myself. It would also be nearer to a wall plug if it was moved to a wall area.

Lady Hobbs- I think you are referring to the first few pics in this thread? The tank isn't set up in front of the window. That just happened to be an out-of-the-way place to set the stand to take pictures. Once I was ready to get it running I rearranged the furniture and it's now sitting to the right of my tv away from the window...

Everyone- I am considering the "rules" of iwagumi for rock placement. I'm not doing a planted tank, but those rules could help create a sense of balance. I don't think I want more stones- I want to leave plenty of space for the shells. As for caves, these "stones" are actually hollow with holes in them so they technically are caves. I chose to try to hide the openings for a more natural look.

I think I agree. #3 really does make the equipment stand out. And the more I look at #2 the more I think it's a little too "even" side to side. I think I will try playing around with the first arrangement and see what happens... I appreciate the input!!

As for the cycle... I apparently did lose the bacteria. There was a day in between returning the fish and finding pure ammonia. That and a complete tank overhaul appears to have been too much for the BB to handle. So now I wait...